Indigenous people of new zealand

The indigenous people of New Zealand are the Māori, who arrived in New Zealand around the 13th century. They are the native Polynesian people of New Zealand and are descended from the Polynesian settlers who first arrived in New Zealand around 1250-1300 AD.

The Māori people developed a rich and complex society, with their own language, customs, and traditions. They lived in tribes, known as iwi, which were often based around specific geographic areas. Each iwi had its own distinct culture, language, and customs, but they all shared a common Māori identity.

The Māori people were skilled craftsmen, farmers, and fishermen, and they developed a sophisticated system of governance and social organization. They built elaborate meeting houses, known as wharenui, which were used for important ceremonies and gatherings.

The Māori people also developed a strong spiritual connection to the land and the natural world. They believed in a spiritual realm, known as the "maramataka," which was inhabited by gods, spirits, and ancestors. They believed that the land was sacred and that they had a responsibility to care for it and to live in harmony with nature.

In the 19th century, European settlers arrived in New Zealand, and this had a profound impact on Māori society. Many Māori people died from diseases brought over by Europeans, to which they had no immunity. The European settlers also took over much of the land, leading to conflicts and disputes over land ownership.

Today, the Māori people are an important part of New Zealand's culture and identity. They have made significant contributions to the country's arts, literature, music, and politics. Many Māori people continue to live in their traditional areas, and they work to preserve their language, customs, and traditions.

Some notable Māori people include:

• Dame Whina Cooper: A prominent Māori leader who fought for Māori land rights and was a key figure in the Māori language revival.
• Sir Apirana Ngata: A Māori politician and scholar who worked to preserve Māori language and culture.
• Kiri Te Kanawa: A renowned Māori opera singer who has performed around the world.
• Taika Waititi: A Māori film director and actor who has gained international recognition for his work on films such as "Thor: Ragnarok" and "What We Do in the Shadows".

Some important Māori cultural practices and traditions include:

• The haka: A traditional Māori war dance that is often performed by Māori teams and groups.
• The whakapapa: A system of genealogy that is used to connect individuals to their ancestors and to their iwi.
• The tangihanga: A traditional Māori funeral ceremony that is used to mourn the dead and to celebrate the life of the deceased.
• The kapa haka: A traditional Māori performing arts group that combines singing, dancing, and storytelling.

Overall, the Māori people have a rich and vibrant culture that is an important part of New Zealand's identity and heritage.